By Kenneth Marcos 
On a humid morning in Antique, dairy farmers and students gathered inside the University of Antique–Hamtic Campus, many of them curious and concerned about a topic that is slowly reshaping both human and animal health: antimicrobial resistance, or AMR. For small farmers who rely on healthy livestock for their daily income, learning how antibiotics should—and should not—be used has become increasingly important.
As part of the Philippine Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week and the global World AMR Awareness Week held every third week of November, the National Dairy Authority (NDA)–Western Visayas led an AMR Awareness Symposium on November 21, 2025. The activity was organized in partnership with the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian of Antique and the University of Antique–Hamtic Campus.
The event took place at the UA-Hamtic FADC Hall and gathered around 70 participants, including dairy farmers, animal technicians, and dairy technology students. Organizers said the goal was to deepen community understanding of AMR and emphasize its impact on agriculture, particularly in the dairy sector.
Experts explained that AMR happens when bacteria and other microorganisms become resistant to medicines that are meant to kill them. When antibiotics are misused—such as giving the wrong dose, unnecessary treatment, or not completing the prescribed period—diseases become harder and more expensive to treat. This affects both animals and people, and it can lead to major losses in farms.
During the symposium, Dr. Marco Rafael Ardamil of the Provincial Veterinary Office discussed “AMR in Agriculture: Understanding and Action.” He explained how improper antibiotic use in farms can speed up the spread of resistant bacteria, threatening food safety and livestock productivity. Ardamil also urged farmers to consult licensed veterinarians before giving any treatment to their animals.
Dr. Edward G. Gamilong of NDA–Western Visayas followed with “Understanding AMR in the Dairy Sector.” He highlighted how dairy animals are especially vulnerable to infections and how responsible antibiotic use, good hygiene, and proper milking practices can help maintain herd health. Gamilong also stressed that high-quality milk starts with healthy animals, and protecting them requires discipline and awareness from everyone involved in dairy production.
The symposium also served as a platform for farmers to raise questions and share their experiences. Many participants said they appreciated learning about practical steps—such as observing withdrawal periods after antibiotic treatment, improving barn cleanliness, and keeping accurate treatment records.
Organizers said the activity is part of a broader effort to strengthen AMR awareness nationwide. By educating farmers and students, agencies hope to prevent the rise of resistant infections and protect both animal and public health.
As the global threat of antimicrobial resistance continues to grow, experts remind communities that small changes in farm practices can help safeguard future generations. Responsible antibiotic use, they say, is a shared duty that begins with informed and empowered farmers.
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